Multi purpose apparatus

ABSTRACT

An apparatus  10  suitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, and as a rescue apparatus in the event of an emergency. In particular, the apparatus  10  is suitable for use as a sleeping bag, a blanket, a distress signal indicator, a stretcher, a water catcher, a hammock, a tent, a shelter or a poncho. The apparatus  10  comprises a sheet  12  defined by opposing first and second longitudinal edges  14, 16,  and by first and second opposing transverse edges  18, 20.  The sheet  12  is substantially bisected by a notional longitudinal mid-line  22  intermediate the first and second longitudinal edges  14, 16.  The apparatus  10  also includes at least two pairs of support means  24, 26,  which support means  24, 26  enable the apparatus  10  to be supported and carried, in use.

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE NVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus suitable for aidingsurvival. The apparatus is primarily intended for use as an apparatussuitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, especially inextreme weather conditions, and which can also be used as a rescueapparatus in the event of an emergency.

During outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, mountainclimbing, camping, cycling, hunting and the like, it is known that acamper, hiker, climber or the like involved in any such activity,strives to minimise the weight and volume of their equipment.

Many of these activities require a sleeping bag, a tent and warmclothing to be included in the equipment to be carried. However, themore items included in the equipment, the heavier and more cumbersomethe equipment becomes. Carrying heavy equipment on one's back over aperiod of time can often result in back strain. Furthermore, if theequipment is exceedingly heavy and cumbersome, this can actually causethe user of the equipment, e.g. a camper, hiker or climber, to losebalance on steep terrain, for example, resulting in a fall.

It is unusual for a camper or hiker to limit the contents of theirequipment to just a sleeping bag, a tent and a change of clothing.

For example, in the event of the camper, hiker or climber being facedwith adverse or even extreme weather conditions, he or she will tend toinclude an additional rain shielding garment, and even some kind ofdistress signal indicator which would be easily seen in the event ofstormy conditions. The inclusion of such extra items adds further to theweight and bulkiness of the user's equipment.

Due to the problems which can arise when carrying heavy and bulkyequipment, the camper, hiker or climber will tend not to carry anyadditional rescue or emergency apparatus that might add to their load.An outdoor activity such as mountain climbing is particularly dangerous.Furthermore, mountain climbing is a sport that tends to be carried outin remote areas. Thus, a climber who attempts to travel lightly to avoidthe problems associated with a heavy load, is putting himself or herselfat risk should an accident occur or an emergency arise.

Due to the high-risk nature of activities such as mountain climbing,climbers embarking on a particularly hazardous trip often travel in agroup of two or more for safety.

In the event of an accident occurring, even in a remote area, theaccompany person(s) can therefore try to transport an injured party fromthe remote area to the nearest medical centre for medical treatment. Itis often vital to the injured party's survival that he or she can bequickly transported from the scene of the accident to the nearestmedical centre.

However, it is not an easy task to transport such an injured party. Anystandard blanket, sleeping bag or tent is generally unsuitable forcarrying the injured party, since it is difficult to grip and carry sucha blanket or the like due to the weight of the injured party lying onit. The injured party therefore has to be dragged from the scene of theaccident by the accompanying person(s), which is both uncomfortable andalso can exacerbate any injuries. Furthermore, the material of astandard sleeping bag, blanket or a tent tends to tear under the weightof the injured party either when the party is being carried or whenbeing dragged along the ground.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to mitigate thedisadvantages of known equipment used during outdoor activities.

It is also an object of the invention to overcome the problem of beingrequired to carry several separate items of equipment when involved inan outdoor activity.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a simple, compactitem that may be used for a wide variety of uses during outdooractivities, and as a rescue apparatus in the event of an emergency.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatussuitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, the apparatuscomprising a sheet defined by opposing first and second longitudinaledges; and by first and second opposing transverse edges, the first andsecond longitudinal and transverse edges forming a periphery of thesheet; the sheet being substantially bisected by a notional longitudinalmid-line intermediate the first and second longitudinal edges; at leasttwo pairs of support means, each pair of support means comprising afirst support means and a second support means, each first support meansbeing adjacent the first longitudinal edge; and each second supportmeans being adjacent the notional longitudinal mid-line.

Preferably, the first support means of the pair of support meanssubstantially opposes the second support means of the pair of supportmeans.

Preferably, a plurality of pairs of support means are provided in asubstantially parallel spaced-apart arrangement, such that each pair ofsupport means are arranged substantially transverse to the notionallongitudinal mid-line.

Preferably, each of the first and second support means comprises a loop.

Preferably, each of the first and second support means, for example aloop, is adapted for receiving, in use, a hand of an operator, such thatthe apparatus can be manually supported and carried in use.

Preferably, at least some of the first support means are axially aligned(in a longitudinal direction) so as to be suitable for receiving a firstelongate support element; and at least some of the second support meansare axially aligned (in a longitudinal direction) so as to be suitablefor receiving a second elongate support element, such that the apparatuscan be supported and carried by one or more operators by means of thefirst and second support elements, in use.

Alternatively or additionally, each pair of support means, such as theloops, may be suitably opposed (in a transverse direction) so as to besuitable for receiving an elongate transverse support element, arrangedsubstantially transverse to the first longitudinal edge and to thenotional longitudinal mid-line, such that the apparatus can be supportedand carried by one or more operators by means of at least one,optionally a plurality of spaced-apart transverse support elements, inuse.

Further alternatively, the plurality of first and second support means,for example the loops, are arranged so as to be suitable for receivingthe first and second elongate support elements in an overlappingcriss-cross arrangement.

Preferably, at least one pair of end support means are provided adjacentthe first and second transverse edges, respectively, and preferably,each end support means comprises a loop.

Preferably, a strap extends between adjacent the first support means ofthe pair of support means and adjacent the second support means of thepair of support means, wherein the terminal or otherwise free ends ofthe strap are attached to the sheet at least adjacent the first andsecond support means.

Alternatively, the strap is integrally formed with the first and secondsupport means, wherein the strap is attached to the sheet at leastadjacent the first and second support means.

Preferably, a plurality of spaced-apart straps are disposedsubstantially transversely relative to the longitudinal mid-line.

Preferably, the sheet is provided with fastening means adjacent thefirst and second longitudinal edges, the fastening means being adaptedto releasably secure the first and second longitudinal edges together.

Alternatively or additionally, fastening means may further be providedadjacent the first and second transverse edges.

Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus is further provided withsecuring means on one of the first and second longitudinal edges, thesecuring means being suitably shaped and dimensioned for a complementarysecuring arrangement with first or second support means, on the other ofthe first and second longitudinal edges, such that the first or secondsupport means and the securing means are adapted to secure the first andsecond longitudinal edges together.

Alternatively or additionally, securing means may further be provided onone of the first and second transverse edges, the securing means beingsuitably shaped and dimensioned for a complementary securing arrangementwith first or second support means, on the other of the first and secondtransverse edges, such that the first or second support means and thesecuring means are adapted to secure the first and second transverseedges together.

Preferably, the fastening means and/or the securing means are in theform of zip fasteners, hooks, snap fasteners, Velcro (Trade Mark),clips, clasps, straps with buckles, loops or the like.

Preferably, the sheet has a first surface and a second surface opposedto the first surface, the first surface being adapted to surround auser's body when the sheet is in a folded state.

Preferably, the second surface is substantially bisected, when theapparatus is in the folded state, into upper and lower surfaces, and thesupport means are secured to the lower surface, in use.

Preferably, each of the straps is secured along at least some of itslength to the lower surface of the sheet in use.

Preferably, at least one comer support means is also provided at eachcomer of the sheet, to enable each comer of the sheet to be fastened toat least one support to create a water catcher. More preferably, eachcomer support means comprises a loop.

Preferably, the sheet is further provided with a plurality of eyeletsarranged around the at least first and second longitudinal edges of thesheet, wherein the eyelets are adapted to receive a peg to secure the atleast first and second longitudinal edges of the sheet to the ground, toenable the sheet to form a tent-like structure. Preferably, the firstsurface is brightly coloured to enable the sheet to be used as adistress signal indicator.

Additionally, at least the upper surface of the second surface isbrightly coloured to enable the sheet to be used as a distress signalindicator when the sheet is in the folded state.

Preferably, the first surface is fluorescent or luminescent and/orreflective.

Additionally, at least the upper surface of the second surface isfluorescent or luminescent and/or reflective.

Preferably, the sheet is provided with a thermally insulating materiallocated between the first and second surfaces, such as Warmtech (TradeMark), supplied by The Mont Blanc Technology Company, a limitedliability company registered at the Bonneville Corporate and TradeRegister in France under the number B 434 852 737, whose head office islocated at 10 Cour Bartavel, 74400 Chamonix, France.

Preferably, an external layer of a fire retardant material, such asCarbonX (Trade Mark), supplied by Chapman Innovations, 155 North 400West, Suite 550, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103, USA, is provided on thesecond surface.

Preferably, the sheet is provided with a substantially centrallydisposed aperture, to enable the apparatus to be used as arain-shielding garment such as a poncho.

The aperture is, for example, located substantially mid-way along thenotional longitudinal mid-line.

Preferably, the aperture is substantially covered by a portion ofmaterial, which, when the apparatus is being used as a poncho, acts as ahood covering the user's head.

According to the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable foraiding survival during outdoor activities, the kit comprising a sheet asdefined hereinbefore and at least one elongate and/or transverse supportelements such that the kit can be assembled in the form of any one of asleeping bag, a blanket, a distress signal indicator, a stretcher, awater catcher, a hammock, a tent, a shelter or a poncho.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an apparatus suitable for aiding survivalduring outdoor activities according to a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the apparatus comprising a sheet which issubstantially quadrilateral, preferably substantially rectangular, inits deployed state;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, viewed from theopposite side, showing the apparatus in a folded state, thereby formingan enclosure for receiving a user's body;

FIG. 3 is a side, partially cutaway, view of the apparatus, showing aschematic outline of a user's body within the apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a view of the apparatus of FIG. 2, wherein a plurality ofsupport means in the form of loops provided on the apparatus are shownto enable the apparatus to manually supported and carried, in use;

FIG. 5 is a view of the apparatus of FIG. 4, wherein the support meansin the form of loops are used for elongate support elements in the formof poles, to enable the apparatus to be supported and carried by meansof the poles;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of the lower surface of the apparatus in thefolded state, in use, wherein the elongate support elements in the formof poles of FIG. 5, are shown to be inserted between the straps and theapparatus in an overlapping criss-cross arrangement;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus mounted to four trees, oneat each comer, using the comer support means in the form of loops of theapparatus, the apparatus being used as a water carrier;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation of the apparatus in the folded state, theapparatus being used as a hammock;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the apparatus being used as a tent; and

FIG. 10 shows the apparatus being used as a shelter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the accompanying drawings, there is provided an apparatus10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Theapparatus 10 preferably comprises a sheet 12 defined by opposing firstand second longitudinal edges 14, 16, and by first and second opposingtransverse edges 18, 20. The sheet 12 is substantially bisected by anotional longitudinal mid-line 22 provided intermediate the first andsecond longitudinal edges 14, 16, and preferably disposed substantiallyparallel thereto. The sheet 12 is also provided with a plurality offirst and second support means 24, 26 adjacent at least the firstlongitudinal edge 14 and the longitudinal mid-line 22, respectively. Thesheet 12 preferably additionally comprises a plurality of spaced-apartstraps 40 disposed substantially transverse to the longitudinal mid-line22.

The apparatus 10 is conveniently convertible into a number of differentconfigurations, including that of a sleeping bag, a blanket, a distresssignal indicator, a stretcher, a water catcher, a hammock, a tent, ashelter or a poncho. Once the apparatus 10 is in the desiredconfiguration for a particular use, the apparatus 10 can be convenientlysupported and carried using one or more of the first and second supportmeans 24, 26 and/or the straps 40, as will be described in more detailhereinafter.

The sheet 12 is preferably substantially quadrilateral, preferablysubstantially rectangular, in plan in its deployed, substantially planarstate. Referring now to FIG. 3, the sheet 12 comprises a first surface28, and a second surface 30 substantially opposed to the first surface28, wherein the first surface 28 is adapted to surround a user's body32, in use, when the sheet 12 is in a folded state. When the apparatus10 is being used as a stretcher, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 forexample, the sheet 12 is generally bisected along the notionallongitudinal mid-line 22, such that the second surface 30 is bisectedinto upper and lower surfaces 34, 36, in use.

The apparatus 10 may be made from any suitable material. A particularlypreferred material is a thermally insulating material, such as Warmtech(Trade Mark), supplied by The Mont Blanc Technology Company, 10 CourBartavel, 74400 Chamonix, France. Warmtech (Trade Mark) is a two layercomposite fabric including an external waterproof layer laminated towhich is an aluminised breathable membrane then an inner thermallyinsulating layer. Thus, the first surface 28 of the sheet 12 ispreferably thermally insulating, and the second surface 30 is preferablywaterproof. The membrane laminated to the external fabric is composed ofa hydrophilic aliphatic polyether-urethane with 30% of metallic aluminumthat gives high heat-reflecting capacity based on the mass of thepolymer. The membrane is waterproof and breathable—the polymer ishydrophilic and transports the moisture produced by the bodyperspiration with a chemical process called “ionic diffusion” Othersuitable materials which may be used include cotton, nylon, or any otherman-made fibre consistent with clothing or apparel manufacture.

It will be appreciated that, if desired, the covering of the materialCarbonX (Trade Mark) (supplied by Chapman Innovations, 155 North 400West, Suite 550, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103, USA) may be substituted asthe external layer with the CarbonX material laminated with Warmtech(Trade Mark) laminate technology. CarbonX (Trade Mark) is a fireretardant material, which serves to protect the body 32 of the user fromfire and/or extreme temperatures. Specifically, CarbonX (Trade Mark) inits raw form, is a yarn created by spinning O-PAN (oxidizedpolyacrylonitrile) fibre with an Aramid strengthening fibre. Thisformula results in a yarn with amazing fire resistant characteristicsthat serves as the precursor to a wide array of products andapplications requiring heat and flame resistance. The CarbonX yarn canthen be converted into an array of fabrics ranging from woven fabrics,knitted fabrics and non-woven felts is present on the third surface.Therefore, combining the CarbonX with the Warmtech Technology laminateand inner lining provides a material which will protect against theextremes of temperature and/or fire and provide thermal insulation and,additionally, water protection.

At least the first surface 28 of the apparatus 10 is preferably brightlycoloured.

The first surface 28 may also be fluorescent or luminescent and/orreflective. Additionally or alternatively, at least the upper surface 34is preferably brightly coloured or may be fluorescent, luminesant and/orreflective.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the apparatus 10 is shown to comprise aplurality of first and second support means 24, 26, ideally arranged inopposed pairs. Each of the pairs of support means preferably comprises afirst support means 24 adjacent the first longitudinal edge 14, and asecond support means 26 provided adjacent the notional longitudinalmid-line 22. Preferably, each of the first and second support means 24,26 of any pair of support means oppose one another. Thus, a plurality ofpairs of support means are preferably provided on the sheet 12 in aparallel spaced-apart arrangement, transverse to the notionallongitudinal mid-line 22. The apparatus 10 preferably comprises at leasttwo pairs of support means 24, 26, more preferably four pairs of supportmeans, as shown in FIG. 1 for example. It will be appreciated that thefirst and second support means 24, 26 of any particular pair of supportmeans need not necessarily oppose one another, and may, alternatively,be formed in a staggered arrangement (not shown) off-set from eachother.

The sheet 12 preferably comprises additional support means 27 providedadjacent the first and second opposing transverse edges 18, 20. Thesesupport means 27 are also preferably arranged in pairs, as shown in FIG.1 for example, each pair having a first and second support means 27adjacent the first and second transverse edges 18, 20, respectively. Theadditional support means 27, referred to hereinafter as end supportmeans 27, are generally provided on the transverse edges 18, 20 of thesheet 12, adjacent the first longitudinal edge 14 and adjacent thenotional longitudinal mid-line 22. Therefore, when the sheet 12 is inthe folded state, as shown for example in FIG. 2, the end support means27 conveniently protrude from both transverse ends of the sheet 12. Thesheet 12 is also preferably provided with two pairs of corner supportmeans 29. Thus, a support means 29 is also provided at each comer of thesheet 12 (referring to FIG. 1 when the sheet 12 is in the deployedstate).

Each of the support means 24, 26, 27, 29, may be independently securedto the sheet 12 using any suitable affixing means (not shown) such asstitching or glue. The support means 24, 26, 27, 29 may be secured tothe sheet 12 either at the respective edge or comer of the sheet 12, oralternatively, at a suitable distance therefrom.

Each of the support means 24, 26, 27, 29 preferably comprises a loop 38.

Referring to FIG. 4, each of the loops 38 is preferably shaped anddimensioned so as to be adapted for receiving, in use, a hand 42 of anoperator (not shown). Thus, using the support means 24, 26, 27, 29, theapparatus 10 can be manually supported and carried, in use. It will beappreciated that the support means 24, 26, 27, 29, when in the form ofloops 38, may be used in a number of alternative ways, to support andcarry the apparatus 10 in use. For example, referring to FIGS. 5—9 inparticular, the loops 38 may be adapted to receive one or more elongatesupport elements 44, such as a pole. The loops 38 may also be arrangedto receive a tie 50, such as a length of rope or cord, used to attachthe apparatus 10 to a surrounding object, such as a tree 52. Examples ofthe alternative uses of the loops 38 of the apparatus 10, will bedescribed in more detail hereinafter.

It will be appreciated that although the support means 24, 26, 27, 29are preferably in the form of loops 38, the support means 24, 26, 27, 29may be any alternative form, such as hooks, snap fasteners, Velcro(Trade Mark), clips, clasps, straps with buckles or loops, or any othersuitable means.

Each of the straps 40 is preferably arranged to extend between the firstsupport means 24 and the second support means 26 of the pair of supportmeans. Each of the straps 40 is preferably integrally formed with, andterminates in, first and second support means 24, 26. In thisarrangement, each of the straps 40 is preferably connected to the sheet12 adjacent the first longitudinal edge 14, and adjacent thelongitudinal mid-line 22. Thus, in this arrangement, each of the supportmeans 24, 26, is connected to the sheet 12 via a respective strap 40. Itwill be appreciated that the straps 40 may be secured to the sheet 12either at the respective edge 14 or mid-line 22 of the sheet 12, oralternatively, at a suitable distance therefrom. The straps 40 may alsobe secured to the sheet 12 at any further desired points (not shown)along the length of the respective strap 40. Each of the straps 40 ispreferably secured only along some of its length to the lower surface 36of the sheet 12 in use. Advantageously, this enables one or more supportelements 44 to be inserted between one or more straps 40 and the lowersurface 36, as will be described in more detail below. Alternatively,each of the straps 40 may be secured along its length to the sheet 12.

The apparatus 10 is also provided with fastening means 46 around some orall of the periphery of the sheet 12. The fastening means 46 are adaptedto secure the first longitudinal edge 14 to the second longitudinal edge16. Preferably, the fastening means 46 also enables the facing portions,in the folded state, of the first transverse edge 18 extending from themid-line 22 in opposite directions to be secured together; and thefacing portions, in the folded state, of the second transverse edge 20extending from the mid-line 22 in opposite directions to be securedtogether, in order to form a substantially sealed enclosure. Thus, thefastening means 46 is preferably in the form of a zip fastener providedon the first surface 28 of the sheet 12, and as indicated by a dottedline in FIG. 1, to enable the sheet 12 to be secured together, in itsfolded state, around the whole periphery thereof. The fastening means 46may alternatively, or additionally, comprise a plurality of discretefasteners 48 such as hooks, snap fasteners, Velcro (Trade Mark), clips,clasps, straps with buckles or loops, or any other suitable means, tosecure the apparatus 10 together.

It will be apparent that the support means 24, 26, 27, 29 may also beadapted to secure the first and second longitudinal edges 14, 16 to oneanother, or even to secure the whole sheet 12 together. Although thesupport means 24, 26, 27, 29 are preferably in the form of loops 38, thefirst support means 24 adjacent the first longitudinal edge 14 may befurther adapted to secure the first and second longitudinal edges 24, 26to each other. For example, the apparatus 10 may be provided withsecuring means (not shown) adjacent the second longitudinal edge 16. Thesecuring means would be suitably shaped and dimensioned for acomplementary fit, and a securing arrangement, with the first supportmeans 24. Each of the securing means could, for example, comprise onehalf of a Velcro (Trade Mark) strip, wherein the other complementaryhalf of the Velcro (Trade Mark) strip would be provided on the firstsupport means 24. The securing means may, however, be in any other form,such as hooks, snap fasteners, Velcro (Trade Mark), clips, clasps,straps with buckles or loops, or any other suitable means. Thus, thefirst support means 24, and any other support means 26, 27, 29, mayadvantageously be used as both support means for the apparatus 10, and,furthermore, as securing means to close the apparatus 10 when it isfolded in two.

In use, the apparatus 10 is suitable for a wide variety of uses duringoutdoor activities. For example, the apparatus 10 can conveniently beconverted into a sleeping bag, a blanket, a water catcher, a hammock, atent, a shelter and a poncho. Thus, the apparatus 10 is especiallysuitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, since any ofthese desired configurations can be used. Furthermore, in the event ofan emergency, the apparatus 10 can conveniently be converted into arescue apparatus in the form of a stretcher, and a distress signalindicator to attract attention.

The apparatus 10 will now be described, in use, as a sleeping bag, ablanket, a distress signal indicator, a stretcher, a water catcher, ahammock, a tent, a shelter and a poncho.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the apparatus 10 is shown, in use, as asleeping bag. In order to create the sleeping bag, the apparatus 10 isfolded in two along the mid-line 22, and closed on three sides in aconventional manner using the zip fastener 46 or any other suitablemeans 24, 26, 27, 29, 48 described above. Instead of merely having anotional mid-line 22, a distinctively marked-out mid-line (not shown)may be provided on one of the surfaces 28, 30 of the sheet 12, ifdesired. Once folded, the apparatus 10 is adapted to receive the user'sbody 32 for use as a sleeping bag.

When the apparatus 10 is being used as a sleeping bag, the first surface28 which comprises the inner, thermally insulating layer, advantageouslytouches against and thermally insulates the body 32. The thermallyinsulating properties of the inner surface material enables the body 32of the user to be protected within the sleeping bag from extremetemperatures ranging, for example, between +35° C. and −35° C.Furthermore, the second surface 30, being waterproof, prevents liquidssuch as water from entering the sleeping bag through said surface 30.Additionally, if the apparatus is provided with a layer of Carbonex(Trade Mark) on the second surface 30 thereof, the body 32 will befurther protected from extremely hot temperatures in the event of afire. It will be appreciated that, although Warmtech (Trade Mark), andoptionally Carbonex (Trade Mark) are particularly suitable materials forthe apparatus 10, any other suitable material may be used to create theapparatus 10.

It will be apparent that, since the apparatus 10 can be used as asleeping bag, the apparatus 10 is therefore also adaptable to be used asa blanket simply wrapped around the user's body 32, without necessarilybeing fastened. In this case, the apparatus 10 will provide theadvantages of thermally insulating the body 32 and protecting the body32 from fire as described above.

In its deployed state, as shown in FIG. 1 for example, the apparatus 10can also conveniently be used as a distress signal indicator (notshown). The first surface 28 is preferably brightly coloured, evenfluorescent or luminescent, and/or reflective. By placing the apparatus10 on the ground, such that the second, waterproof, surface 30 abuts theground or any other suitable surface (not shown), bright colour of thefirst surface 28 is exposed to passers-by, emergency services or thelike. The distress signal indicator can be secured to the ground orother surface by placing ground-engaging means (not shown) through anyof the loops 38 or suitably shaped fastening means 48. Therefore, theapparatus 10 can conveniently be used to draw attention to an injuredparty for example, when used as a distress signal indicator.

It will be apparent that at least the upper surface 34 of the secondsurface 30, in use, may also be brightly coloured, even fluorescent orluminescent, and/or reflective. In this way, the bright upper surface 34could be seen when the injured party is actually within the apparatus 10in the form of a sleeping bag or a stretcher.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 in particular, the apparatus 10 isshown in a folded state, in use, as a stretcher. FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 eachshow different ways in which the support means 24, 26, 27, 29,particularly when in the form of loops 38, may be used to support andcarry the apparatus 10 when used as a stretcher.

As described above, with reference to FIG. 4, each of the loops 38 ispreferably shaped and dimensioned so as to be adapted for receiving, inuse, a hand 42 of an operator (not shown). Thus, if the user of theapparatus 10 is injured, the injured party can be placed on the uppersurface 34 of the stretcher. Then, one or more operators in the form ofaccompanying persons or emergency workers (not shown) can manually gripthe loops 38, in order to manually support and carry the apparatus 10 asa stretcher. This arrangement is particularly useful in the event of anaccident occurring in a remote area. The apparatus 10 can be used as arescue apparatus in the form of a stretcher, enabling the injured partyto be easily transported to a desired location, such as a medicalcentre, to receive treatment for the injury.

It will be appreciated that, although the injured party may be placed onthe upper surface 34, the apparatus 10 may conveniently be used as astretcher and sleeping bag combination at one time. If the injured partyis also suffering from hypothermia, for example, the injured party canbe placed within the apparatus 10 as described above in relation to FIG.3, in order to be thermally insulated, whilst being supported andcarried on the apparatus 10 as a stretcher.

The straps 40 are preferably formed from a substantially rigid material,especially nylon. However, the straps 40 may, if desired, be formed froma substantially resilient material. It will be apparent that the straps40 provide support to the body of an injured party when the apparatus 10is used as a stretcher. In particular, and referring to FIG. 3 as anexample, the straps 40 provide support to vital areas of the body 32such as the head, the back, the thighs and area around the feet. In thisway, the injured party, when carried in this manner, is not subjected toadverse stresses being placed on the body 32, since the body 32 issupported in the necessary areas. The material of the straps 40 cantherefore be adapted in order to suit different uses of the apparatus10. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the straps 40 can bereplaceable, if desired, so that straps 40 of a particular strength canbe used for a particular use.

FIG. 5 shows a variation of the apparatus 10 being used as a stretcher.Each pair of first and second support means 24, 26 are shown to bealigned transversely. In this arrangement, the loops 38 of the supportmeans 24, 26 are adapted to receive first and second elongate supportelements 44 along the first longitudinal edge 14 and the mid-line 22respectively. The elongate support elements 44 are preferably in theform of poles, alternatively in the form of beams or the like.Therefore, the stretcher can conveniently be supported and carried bytwo or more operators, by manually gripping the poles 44. This variationcan also be useful if it is desired to support an injured party on theapparatus 10 at a distance above the ground. For example, the poles 44can be arranged so that the ends of the poles 44 rest on surroundingtrees (not shown), or are wedged within surrounding rocks, for example.In this case, the apparatus 10 can be securely suspended at a distanceabove the ground. The loops 38 are also adapted so as to be suitable forreceiving a plurality of substantially parallel transverse supportelements 45 (as shown in FIG. 6 for example), substantially transverseto the first longitudinal edge 14 and longitudinal mid-line 22.

A further variation of the apparatus being used as a stretcher is shownin FIG. 6. In this case, the two poles 44 are inserted between thestraps 40 and the lower surface 36 as shown in FIG. 6, and throughopposing end support means 27, so that the poles 44 are arranged in anoverlapping criss-cross arrangement against the lower surface 36 of theapparatus 10 in use. It will be appreciated that this arrangement may beadapted to include further poles (not shown), thereby forming a latticestructure (not shown) of poles, to provide even further support to theapparatus 10. Alternatively, the precise positioning of the poles 44 maybe modified to suit any particular situation. This arrangement may beparticularly useful if, for example, the injured party has received aninjury to his or her back, and requires additional support provided bythe criss-cross arrangement of the poles 44.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the apparatus 10 is shown being used as a watercatcher. Each of the loops 38 of the corner support means 29 is arrangedto receive a tie 50 used to attach the apparatus 10 to a tree 52 or thelike. The ties 50 are preferably a length of rope or cord, however theymay be in the form of any other suitable tying means (not shown). Theapparatus 10 is preferably tied to the trees in such a way that thesecond surface 30 is upwardly facing, the apparatus 10 beingsubstantially concave in shape as shown in FIG. 7. Thus, due to thebowl-like concave shape of the apparatus 10, and since the outer surface30 is waterproof, the apparatus 10 can be used to efficiently catchwater when it rains or from condensation in warm climates. Thisarrangement is particularly suitable for when the apparatus 10 is beingused in a forest or wooded area, in order to use trees 52 as supports.It will be appreciated that the apparatus 10 can, naturally, be used asa water catcher using supports (not shown) other than trees 52.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the apparatus 10 is shown being used as ahammock. The hammock is arranged and attached to supports such as trees(not shown in FIG. 8), in a similar way to the water catcher describedabove. However, before attaching the apparatus to supports, the sheet 12is generally folded in two as with the sleeping bag variation of FIG. 3.The end support means 27 are preferably used to attach the hammock tothe supports, however, it will be apparent that a combination of cornersupport means 29 and first and second support means 24, 26, mayalternatively be used.

FIG. 9 shows the apparatus 10 in the form of a tent. In use, theapparatus 10 is generally arranged into an inverted V-shape as shown,with the waterproof second surface 30 arranged to face outwardly. A tie50 in the form of a length of rope or cord is generally placed abuttingthe notional mid-line 22, the otherwise free ends of the tie 50 beingattached to supports (not shown in FIG. 9) as described above for thewater catcher and hammock. In this way, the apparatus 10 used as a tentis supported along the length of the notional longitudinal mid-line 22.In order to secure the tent to the ground, a plurality of tent pegs 54can be inserted into one or more of the loops 38 or the discretefastening means 48 provided around the periphery of the sheet 12. Itwill be appreciated that a number of eyelets (not shown) mayadditionally be provided around the periphery of the sheet 12 for thispurpose. This arrangement of the apparatus 10 can be conveniently usedto shelter the user.

In a further variation, and referring now to FIG. 10, the apparatus 10can also be conveniently used as a shelter even on steep terrain, whereit would not be convenient to mount the apparatus 10 in the shape of theconventional tent. For the apparatus 10 can be placed at an anglerelative to the incline of the terrain, and then be secured using pegs54 and the like, as previously described above. It will be appreciatedthat the waterproof second surface 30 should generally be positioned soas to face outwardly to protect the user from any rain or the like.

The apparatus 10 may also be provided with a substantially centrallydisposed aperture (not shown) to enable the apparatus 10 to be worn as aponcho (not shown). It will be appreciated that the apparatus 10 may befurther modified, for example by providing the aperture with a zipfastener (not shown), and/or providing a portion of material (not shown)arranged to cover the aperture when the apparatus 10 is not being usedas a poncho, and to act as a hood for the user's head when the apparatus10 is being used as a poncho.

It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to theembodiments described herein. For example, it is envisaged that anassembly for use as a kit (not shown) could comprise an apparatus 10 asdescribed herein, and one or more support elements 44, such as poles,and/or lengths of cord or rope.

It will be apparent that although the support means 24, 26, 27, 29, havebeen described as being formed in pairs, the invention is not limitedthereto. For example, the support means 24, 26, 27, 29, may be uneven innumber and/or unevenly spaced apart (not shown). In this way, thesupport means, not being in pairs, may be adapted to be used aspreviously described herein.

It will be further apparent that, although the support means 24, 26, 27,29 are generally preferred in the form of loops 38, the support meansmay alternatively be in any other suitable form. For example, in afurther variation, the support means 24, 26, 27 could be in the in theform of elongate sleeves (not shown) provided at or adjacent the firstlongitudinal edge 14, the mid-line 22, and the first and secondtransverse edges 18, 20, respectively.

It will be appreciated that although each of the straps 40 is preferablyintegrally formed with its respective first and second support means 24,26, as previously described herein, the invention is not limited to thisarrangement. The straps 40 may, alternatively, be independent of thefirst and second support means 24, 26, in which case the support means24, 26, will generally be independently secured to the sheet 12 usingany suitable means (not shown), as previously described herein.Furthermore, the otherwise free ends of the straps 40 would thereforealso preferably be independently attached to the sheet 12 adjacent thefirst and second support means 24, 26.

It will be further appreciated that the straps 40 are not limited to aspaced-apart arrangement, transverse to the longitudinal mid-line 22.The straps 40 may alternatively be disposed at any desired anglerelative to the mid-line 22. Furthermore, the straps 40 are not requiredto extend all the way between the first and second support means 24, 26,and any other suitable arrangement of straps may be used.

It will be still further apparent that the elongate support elements 44and the ties 50 may be interchangeable as appropriate and as required bya particular use of the apparatus 10.

The apparatus 10 of the present invention may be still further modified,without departing from the scope of the present invention. The apparatus10 has been described as being suitable for use as any one of and/or acombination of a sleeping bag, a blanket, a distress signal indicator, astretcher, a water catcher, a hammock, a tent, a shelter or a poncho.Thus, it will be appreciated that any of the features of the inventionmay be modified to as to enable the apparatus 10 to be used for furtheruses not explicitly described herein, but falling within the scope ofthe present invention.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments describedherein, which may be amended or modified without departing from thescope of the present invention.

1. An apparatus suitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities,the apparatus comprising: a sheet defined by opposing first and secondlongitudinal edges; and by first and second opposing transverse edges,the first and second longitudinal and transverse edges forming aperiphery of the sheet; the sheet being substantially bisected by anotional longitudinal mid-line intermediate the first and secondlongitudinal edges; at least two pairs of support means, each pair ofsupport means comprising a first support means and a second supportmeans, each first support means being adjacent the first longitudinaledge; and each second support means being adjacent the notionallongitudinal mid-line.
 2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe first support means of the pair of support means substantiallyopposes the second support means of the pair of support means.
 3. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of pairs of supportmeans are provided in a substantially parallel spaced-apart arrangement,such that each pair of support means are arranged substantiallytransverse to the notional longitudinal mid-line.
 4. An apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein each of the first and second support meanscomprises a loop.
 5. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein each ofthe first and second support means is adapted for receiving, in use, ahand of an operator, such that the apparatus can be manually supportedand carried in use.
 5. (cancelled)
 6. An apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein each pair of support means may be suitably opposed in atransverse direction so as to be suitable for receiving an elongatetransverse support element, arranged substantially transverse to thefirst longitudinal edge and to the notional longitudinal mid-line, suchthat the apparatus can be supported and carried by one or more operatorsby means of at least one, optionally a plurality of spaced-aparttransverse support elements, in use.
 7. An apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein the plurality of first and second support means are arrangedso as to be suitable for receiving the first and second elongate supportelements in an overlapping criss-cross arrangement.
 8. An apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein at least one pair of end support means areprovided adjacent the first and second transverse edges, respectively,and preferably, each end support means comprises a loop.
 9. An apparatusas claimed in claim 1, wherein a strap extends between adjacent thefirst support means of the pair of support means and adjacent the secondsupport means of the pair of support means, wherein the terminal orotherwise free ends of the strap are attached to the sheet at leastadjacent the first and second support means.
 10. An apparatus as claimedin claim 9, wherein the strap is integrally formed with the first andsecond support means, wherein the strap is attached to the sheet atleast adjacent the first and second support means.
 11. An apparatus asclaimed in claim 9, wherein a plurality of spaced-apart straps aredisposed substantially transversely relative to the longitudinalmid-line.
 12. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sheet isprovided with fastening means adjacent the first and second longitudinaledges, the fastening means being adapted to releasably secure the firstand second longitudinal edges together.
 13. An apparatus as claimed inclaim 12, wherein fastening means may further be provided adjacent thefirst and second transverse edges.
 14. An apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein the apparatus is further provided with scaring means on oneof the first and second longitudinal edges, the securing means beingsuitably shaped and dimensioned for a complementary securing arrangementwith first or second support means, on the other of the first and secondlongitudinal edges, such that the first or second support means and thesecuring means are adapted to secure the first and second longitudinaledges together.
 15. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein theapparatus is further provided with securing means on one of the firstand second transverse edges, the securing means being suitably shapedand dimensioned for a complementary securing arrangement with first orsecond support means, on the other of the first and second transverseedges, such that the first or second support means and the securingmeans are adapted to secure the first and second transverse edgestogether.
 16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the fasteningmeans and/or the securing means are in the form of zip fasteners, hooks,snap fasteners, Velcro (Trade Mark), clips, clasps, straps with buckles,loops or the like.
 17. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein thesheet has a first surface and a second surface opposed to the firstsurface, the first surface being adapted to surround a user's body whenthe sheet is in a folded state.
 18. An apparatus as claimed in claim 17,wherein the second surface is substantially bisected, when the apparatusis in the folded state, into upper and lower surfaces, and the supportmeans are secured to the lower surface, in use.
 19. An apparatus asclaimed in claim 9, wherein each of the straps is secured along at leastsome of its length to the lower surface of the sheet in use.
 20. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one corner supportmeans is also provided at each corner of the sheet, to enable eachcorner of the sheet to be fastened to at least one support to create awater catcher.
 21. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein eachcorner support means comprises a loop.
 22. An apparatus as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the sheet is further provided with a plurality ofeyelets arranged around the at least first and second longitudinal edgesof the sheet, wherein the eyelets are adapted to receive a peg to securethe at least first and second longitudinal edges of the sheet to theground, to enable the sheet to form a tent-like structure.
 23. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 17, wherein the first surface is brightlycoloured to enable the sheet to be used as a distress signal indicator.24. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein at least the uppersurface of the second surface is brightly coloured to enable the sheetto be used as a distress signal indicator when the sheet is in thefolded state.
 25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the firstsurface is fluorescent or luminescent and/or reflective.
 26. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein at least the upper surface ofthe second surface is fluorescent or luminescent and/or reflective. 27.An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sheet is provided with athermally insulating material located between the first and secondsurfaces.
 28. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein an externallayer of a fire retardant material is provided on the second surface.29. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, whereby the sheet is providedwith a substantially centrally disposed aperture, to enable theapparatus to be used as a rain-shielding garment such as a poncho. 30.An apparatus as claimed in claim 29, wherein the aperture is locatedsubstantially mid-way along the notional longitudinal mid-line.
 31. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 29, wherein the aperture is substantiallycovered by a portion of material, which, when the apparatus is beingused as a poncho, acts as a hood covering the user's head.
 32. A kitsuitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, the kitcomprising a sheet as defined hereinbefore and at least one elongateand/or transverse support elements such that the kit can be assembled inthe form of any one of a sleeping bag, a blanket, a distress signalindicator, a stretcher, a water catcher, a hammock, a tent, a shelter ora poncho.
 33. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least someof the first support means are axially aligned in a longitudinaldirection so as to be suitable for receiving a first elongate supportelement; and at least some of the second support means are axiallyaligned in a longitudinal direction so as to be suitable for receiving asecond elongate support element, such that the apparatus can besupported and carried by one or more operators by means of the first andsecond support elements, in use.